Advanced Placement Chemistry

By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Heb. 11:3).

This course will pick up where Chemistry I left off, with the purpose of preparing the student who is interested in a career in chemistry, biology, medicine, engineering and related disciplines to be successful at the college level. By continuing the exploration and study of “the things which are seen”, elements, compounds, and materials; the student will gain an understanding of the composition of matter and its interactions; “the things which are not visible”. Topics studied will include review and more in depth study of topics studied in Chemistry I, including: matter and measurement; atoms, molecules, and ions; chemical reactions and stoichiometry; reactions in aqueous solution; electronic structure of atoms; periodic properties of elements; basic concepts of chemical bonding; and molecular geometry and bonding theories. In addition the study of the states of matter (gases, liquids and intermolecular forces, solids and modern materials and properties of solutions), chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium (including acid-base equilibrium, buffers, and solubility equilibrium), chemical thermodynamics, and electrochemistry.

As with Chemistry I, this course will require strong mathematical skills, reading ability, and writing skills. Sixteen guided inquiry labs required by the AP curriculum will be performed. This course is specifically designed to prepare the student for the AP Chemistry Exam in early May; therefore it is fast-paced and requires a lot of self-study on the part of the student. As time permits after the exam date additional topics including: a survey of organic chemistry (the chemistry of carbon-based molecules, the basis for all living things), nuclear chemistry, environmental chemistry, chemistry of the non-metals, and transition metals and coordination chemistry may be studied.

Prerequisite: 93% in Chemistry I Honors or 97% in Chemistry I. Also, 90% in Algebra II Honors or 93% in Algebra II. Teacher recommendation required.

NOTE: This course also requires students to take the CollegeBoard AP Chemistry Exam given at CCA in May. The $90 exam fee must be paid before the end of September. If the fee is not paid the student will be placed in an Honors science course of their choosing.